NERDGASM!
Anyone who was around during the initial run of Star Trek: The Next Generation will know just how brilliant, intelligent and awe-inspiring the landmark show actually was.
Over the years, over the re-runs and the streaming capabilities, it has continued to find new audiences to love it, even as modern versions of the Star Trek universe - including the Chris Pine movies, and the Netflix series Star Trek Discovery - expanded the franchise further and further.
However, even decades later, there is a huge amount of love for the TNG run of the show, which is why fans all over the world could probably be heard clapping with delight as Patrick Stewart confirmed he will be returning to the Star Trek world (or is that worlds?) as Jean-Luc Picard for a brand new show that will tell the next chapter in the character's life.
Stewart made a surprise appearance on stage at a Star Trek convention in Las Vegas on Saturday afternoon and made the
following announcement:
"I will always be very proud to have been a part of Star Trek: The Next Generation, but when we wrapped that final movie in the spring of 2002, I truly felt my time with Star Trek had run its natural course.
"It is, therefore, an unexpected but delightful surprise to find myself excited and invigorated to be returning to Jean-Luc Picard and to explore new dimensions within him. Seeking out new life for him, when I thought that life was over.
"During these past years, it has been humbling to hear many stories about how The Next Generation brought people comfort, saw them through difficult periods in their lives or how the example of Jean-Luc inspired so many to follow in his footsteps, pursuing science, exploration and leadership.
"I feel I'm ready to return to him for the same reason — to research and experience what comforting and reforming light he might shine on these often very dark times. I look forward to working with our brilliant creative team as we endeavour to bring a fresh, unexpected and pertinent story to life once more."
Set. Faces. To. STUNNED.
Picard will also act as executive producer on the show, joining Alex Kurtzman (the showrunner of Star Trek Discovery), who also made a statement about the new show:
"With overwhelming joy, it’s a privilege to welcome Sir Patrick Stewart back to the Star Trek fold. For over 20 years, fans have hoped for the return of Captain Jean-Luc Picard and that day is finally here. We can’t wait to forge new ground, surprise people, and honour generations both new and old."
No further details - show title, release date, any other TNG stars returning - were revealed, but we imagine all fellow Trekkies will be keeping a close eye on this one!
